Kootenai | Kootenai Health | Issue 1, 2022

was so pleased the Foundation agreed to support that as the main theme of the Festival of Trees.” Although it wasn’t open to the public, the Foundation invited hospital staff and family members to schedule times to visit the event center to be treated to an elaborate hot cocoa bar and visits with Santa. Social distancing and masking measures were in place. “The Health Care Heroes Day was a huge hit,” Kali said. Hopeand light One aspect of this long-held local tradition is the delivery of the bedecked trees to the homes of buyers after the Festival. Kootenai Health Facilities Services Office Coordinator Virginia Grob has overseen the deliveries with her tight- knit crew of volunteers for six seasons. “This year was fun,” she said. “We delivered the raffle tree to winners Mary and Weldon Havercroft in Rathdrum. They didn’t expect us to set up the tree for them. We recreated the whole setup. That’s one of the things we do.” Sometimes the trees and the accompanying abundance of gifts are split between different places, Virginia said, but many times the buyers donate them back to the community. “These trees go a lot of places—schools, libraries, clinics,” she said. “They’re something to give hope and light and true holiday camaraderie. That’s one thing I love about it.” She’s witnessed Festival magic as part of this delivery team. “Delivering to the Children’s Village nonprofit really is magical,” she said. “The joy in the children’s faces is priceless when they see this beautiful tree come in and make it feel like a home.” “The Foundation is incredibly appreciative of the unwavering support from the community each year,” Foundation President Julie Holt said. “Virtual or not, the Festival of Trees is a beloved tradition people look forward to. Our community’s generosity made this year’s event shine.” Masters of ceremonies Charlie Linder, Kootenai Health hospitality director, and Rose Backs KH . ORG 21